By J. Lang Wood
About Gorges
A gorge, or canyon, is a steep, narrow cut between two rock faces through which water flows. In the
United States the term canyon is often used instead. However, the term gorge is still used in some areas. The U.S. has many beautiful gorges across the country for visitors and sports enthusiasts to enjoy.
Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most famous gorges in the continental United States. At 80 miles long and 4,000 feet deep, its waterfalls attract visitors from around the world. Scenic Multnomah Falls is the second-highest year-round waterfall in the U.S.
Pennsylvania
Known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is set in the old-growth forests of the Tioga State Forest and cuts down 1,000 feet into Paleozoic sedimentary rock. The Pine Creek Rail Trail allows visitors a convenient hiking and biking path to enjoy the views of waterfalls and rock formations.
New Mexico
The Rio Grande Gorge, near Taos, reaches a depth of 800 feet and is known for its white water, rock-climbing opportunities, and hidden hot springs. It one of the few gorges that was not created by the movement of the river, rather the rift appeared and the river came to fill it. The gorge is also the site of numerous Native American ruins and petroglyphs.
New Hampshire
Flume Gorge in Franconia State Park is in the beautiful White Mountains, cutting into natural granite cliffs 800 feet high at the base of Mount Liberty. The park is open daily with a wonderful hiking path from visitor's center to the Flume.
Kentucky
The Red River Gorge in Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest was formed by the action of the Red River, which cut the notch in the sandstone cliffs, creating 150 arches and other rock formations. The area is a popular place for biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, rock-climbing, camping and horseback riding.
Maryland
Mather Gorge is a cliff-lined section of the Potomac River on the border between Maryland and Virginia. It's a well-kept secret to many in the area, mostly because it is not visible from lookout points built for viewing the Great Falls. However, many hikers, rock-climbers, and white-water kayakers in the area know Mather Gorge's great natural beauty and exciting sporting opportunities.
Resources
About the Author:
J. Lang Wood's stories, essays and articles have been seen in journals across the country and online. She is a published short story and essay writer who specializes in travel topics, pets, medical subjects, Florida history, environmental issues, political and business topics. She is the author of the novel "Strays" and holds an Associate of Arts in chemistry from College of DuPage.
Photo Credits:
J. Lang Wood
